As of 1 December 2017, the ban on light-weight single-use plastic bags (less than 50 microns thick) in the Brussels-Capital Region, ACR+ member, is total. Shops and supermarkets are no longer allowed to pack groceries or other goods into plastic bags, in an effort to encourage the use of more sustainable alternatives. The ban applies to all Brussels’ retailers: grocery stores, night shops, general food stores, supermarkets, market stalls, take-away meals, butcher shops, fishmongers, etc. The ban also includes plastic bags handed out by non-food retailers, such as clothing shops.

This measure was introduced on 1 September 2017, but the regulation foreseen a phase-out period of 3 months. It results from a European Directive as regards reducing the consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags adopted in 2015. The aim of the ban is to reduce waste and better protect the environment.

A further step is planned to be introduced from 1 September 2018, when the ban will be extended to cover also other types of very light plastic bags such as those used to carry fruits, vegetables and other foodstuffs that could leak which are excepted from the current regulation.